Nowadays, it has become an important topic of discussion and, therefore, it is finding a place for itself even in contemporary movies, stories, etc.

What are the causes? A host of factors such as family history, gravity, constipation, heavy lifting, a low-fibre diet, obesity, food allergies, lack of physical activity, pregnancy and prolonged sitting or standing are said to contribute to piles.

Piles are mainly of two types namely internal that develop inside the rectum and external that lie just below the skin around the anus.

What are the most common symptoms of piles? The most common symptoms associated with haemorrhoids/piles are blood clots or lumps around the anus, bleeding during bowel movements, irritation near the anal region and the urge to have a bowel movement, even when there is no stool.

Do not let the problems related to piles pile up! If neglected for too long, piles may also lead to complications like chronic blood loss, strangulated piles, tissue death and even anal or colorectal cancer.

However, apart from medical treatments, there are also certain natural remedies that can be used to treat piles. Take a look at some of them:

1) Warm Squat/Sit Baths:

Sitting in a few inches of warm water three times in a day for 15 to 20 minutes may help decrease the inflammation caused by piles. It is important to dry off the anal area completely to minimise skin irritation around the anal area.

2) Maintaining A Proper Diet:

Increased fluid intake and dietary fibre can decrease the chances of having piles and also reduce the piles-induced pain around anus. Fibre-rich foods can soften the stool and increase its bulk, which in turn helps in reducing straining during bowel movements. Some of the best whole grain products are oats, barley, maize, brown rice, millet, etc.

3) Ice Treatment:

Application of ice on the affected area is highly recommended, as it will help constrict the blood vessels, reduce swelling and give you an immediate pain relief.

4) Aloe Vera:

The anti-inflammatory and therapeutic properties of aloe vera help reduce the irritation caused by piles. Apply a little bit of aloe vera gel on the affected area and slowly massage to give you relief from the pain and soothe the burning sensation.

5) Lemon Juice:

The nutrients present in lemon juice can give you relief from piles by strengthening the capillaries and blood vessel walls. Soak a cotton ball in freshly squeezed lemon juice and apply it on the piles-affected area. Initially, you might feel a tingling or burning sensation; but soon, you will feel your pain going away.

6) Almond Oil:

Almond oil, which is known for its deep tissue absorption properties, moisturises and eases inflammation, thus relieving the burning and itching sensation in and around the anus. It is used mainly for external haemorrhoid treatment. Apply a cotton ball soaked in pure almond oil on the affected area to get an instant relief.

7) Olive Oil:

Olive oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and can be used to treat piles. You can either consume one teaspoon of olive oil daily or apply a mixture of plum leaf juice extract and olive oil on the swollen piles-affected area.

8) Other Natural Remedies:

Sitting in the same posture for long hours should be avoided. Also, certain exercises can also be helpful in treating piles. Consult a doctor at the earliest and use doctor-prescribed ointments to help reduce the piles-related pain.